The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Screening tests are given to people without current symptoms, but who may be at high risk for certain diseases or conditions.

Screening Guidelines

There are no current screening guidelines for UTIs. However, a doctor may do screening tests under certain circumstances. These may include:

Pregnant women during the first trimester

People with diabetes

Well-child check-ups or routine adult physicals

People with underlying urinary tract abnormalities

Screening tests for
urinary tract infection
(UTI) include:

Urine dip—A dipstick coated with special chemicals is dipped into the urine sample. Areas on it change color to indicate the presence of blood, pus, bacteria, or other materials. This is a quick, general test.

Microscopic urinalysis—The urine is examined under a microscope for the presence and quantity of materials such as red blood cells, white blood cells (pus), and bacteria. This is a more accurate way to diagnose a urinary tract infection.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Urinary tract infections in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at:
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/urologic-disease/urinary-tract-infections-in-adults/Pages/facts.aspx. Updated May 2012. Accessed September 12, 2016.